Perhaps we should give some thought to what we would do if for some reason we had to deal with a disaster in our area. What would happen to our pets? Are we prepared to care for them, if we should have to evacuate the area? With a little planning and preparation we can help our pets survive a disaster safely and with a minimum of trauma.

The first step is to have a pet disaster kit, which should include:

• Proper identification, including shot records, ID tags and collar and MicroChip number.

• Adequate supply of pet food for several days for each pet.

• Drinkable water, preferably stored in plastic bottles.

• Mechanical or hand can opener for canned food.

• Pet medications and medical records in a waterproof container.

• Sturdy leashes and collars, crates or pet carriers so you can move pets safely so they can't escape. Remember, they may become frightened and act different than usual.

• Current photos, in case your pet gets lost or separated from you.

• Pet beds and toys, if you have room.

• Your veterinarian's name and contact information.

Also, contact your veterinarian and local animal control or humane society for information about a community disaster plan in your area. Where can animals be boarded? Is there a facility to set up temporary housing for pets?

Now is the time to prepare for a disaster. Is your pet kennel or crate trained? If not, now is a good time to start teaching it to use a crate or kennel.

As you plan your evacuation strategy, don't forget your pet. Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends or relatives located out of harm's way are all potential refuges for your pet durning a disaster. Don't forget to contact the shelter or refuge ahead of time and be sure all parties agree on the care of your pet if you must leave it with some one.

During a disaster, animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have proper identification, including collar ID and rabies tag, identification on all belongings, a crate, a leash, food and water dishes and an ample supply of food. Also be sure to include a supply of any necessary medications with specific care instructions.

If you are keeping your pet with you, make sure it is securely confined in a crate or carrier, or on a leash. Keep it inside with you. Do not expect your pet to react in a normal way during such a stressful time. Take precautions to keep it calm and safe.

After a disaster and you have returned home, walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home as often familiar scents and land marks may be altered and pets can be confused and get lost. Also be aware of any downed power lines, loose reptiles, broken glass and damaged structures, all of which can pose as a threat or danger to animals after a disaster.

If your pet should become lost, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring a current picture of your pet if possible and chip number.

Animals that have been through a stressful situation can become aggressive or defensive, so monitor their behavior and provide them with a calm stress free area to relax in.

If you have any questions about pets or animal regulations in Big Spring, Contact Animal Control at  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

And remember, stop those litters, spay those critters.

Trellis Lucas is a Big Spring dog trainer.